Will Rishabh Pant Surpass MS Dhoni's Test Runs?
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Synopsis
Former Indian cricketer Aakash Chopra believes that Rishabh Pant, currently recovering from an injury, is on track to outpace MS Dhoni’s Test runs if he plays more matches. With impressive stats and performances, Pant is already being compared to Dhoni, raising questions about his legacy.
Key Takeaways
- Rishabh Pant has a promising Test career ahead.
- He has already scored more centuries than MS Dhoni.
- Pant is recovering from an injury but has shown exceptional form.
- His performances in England have drawn significant attention.
- Chopra believes Pant could redefine wicketkeeper-batsman records.
New Delhi, Aug 10 (NationPress) Renowned former Indian opener Aakash Chopra has stated that Rishabh Pant is poised to eclipse MS Dhoni’s Test run total if he continues to feature in more matches for India. Currently, Pant, who serves as India’s vice-captain in Tests, is recuperating from a right foot injury he incurred while batting during the fourth Test against England in Manchester.
To date, Pant has played in 47 Test matches, accumulating 3427 runs at an average of 44.50. His achievements include eight centuries—two more than Dhoni, who notched up six centuries in his 90 Tests. Chopra has pondered whether it is fair to declare Pant as the greatest wicketkeeper-batsman in India’s Test history.
“MS Dhoni leads in terms of matches played and runs scored, having participated in 90 games, with 144 innings totaling 4876 runs at an average of 38.09, alongside his six centuries. Over the past five years, Rishabh Pant has also scored six centuries,” Chopra remarked in a video on his YouTube channel.
“Overall, Rishabh Pant has already achieved eight centuries, surpassing MS Dhoni’s six. Currently, he ranks second in terms of runs scored but is 1400 runs behind Dhoni while having played nearly half the number of matches. If he continues to play, he will undoubtedly surpass Dhoni,” Chopra asserted.
During the recent Test series in England, Pant excelled with 479 runs in seven innings, boasting an impressive average of 68.42, including two centuries in the first Test at Headingley, Leeds. “When analyzing the most runs by a wicketkeeper in England, he is the only player to have scored 1000 runs there, with four centuries and five half-centuries. He has amassed over 1000 runs in just 13 matches and 24 innings. Statues might soon be erected in his honor in England,” Chopra added.
“Looking at the global list of Test wicketkeepers, Adam Gilchrist stands out with 5570 runs at an average of 47.60 across 96 matches. He is currently ahead of Pant; however, Pant is just 2250 runs behind. Without a doubt, he is India’s top wicketkeeper-batsman and will likely cement his status as one of the finest in world cricket,” concluded Chopra.
Point of View
Aakash Chopra's insights reflect a growing belief in Rishabh Pant's capabilities as a cricketer. His recovery and performance could indeed redefine India's cricketing legacy. As the nation rallies behind its players, the future looks promising.
NationPress
09/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Test matches has Rishabh Pant played?
Rishabh Pant has played in 47 Test matches so far.
What is Rishabh Pant's current run tally in Tests?
Pant has accumulated 3427 runs in Test matches.
How does Pant's performance compare to MS Dhoni's?
Pant has scored 8 centuries compared to Dhoni's 6 centuries in Test matches.
What injury is Rishabh Pant recovering from?
Pant is recovering from a right foot fracture.
What did Aakash Chopra say about Pant's future?
Chopra believes that if Pant continues to play, he will surpass Dhoni's run tally.
